May 31 was the last day Barry and surrounding counties have had the privilege of having Dr. William “Bill” Flake providing compassionate care to the community, a press release from Mercy Hospital said. Flake is retiring after more than 15 years of service as a general surgeon at Mercy Cassville, previously know as South Barry County. “Dr. Flake has always been an advocate for critical access hospitals and his presence will truly be missed by the staff and patients,” the release said. ”We wish him a long happy and healthy retirement.”